NACDD Releases DD Councils Impact Report

July 15, 2017

For Immediate Release: Contact: info@nacdd.org or (202) 506-5813

FIVE-YEAR IMPACT REPORT ON DD COUNCILS RELEASED BY NACDD AT 2017 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

SALT LAKE CITY – This week at their annual conference, The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities released a five-year impact report of the DD Councils and their work. This report highlights the work of Councils during the most recent five-year cycle, FY 2012 to FY 2016, based on a review of annual reports submitted by Councils.

Developmental Disabilities (DD) Councils are part of the Developmental Disabilities Network as outlined by the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act Amendments of 2000 (DD Act). Councils exist in every state and US territory. They consist of volunteer members appointed by the governor. The majority of members must be individuals with DD or family members of individuals with DD. Councils receive federal funding through a grant formula and are charged with addressing the most pressing needs of people with DD and their families in their state or territory.

Approximately 5 million individuals in the US have developmental disabilities. As defined in the DD Act, a developmental disability is a severe, chronic disability, which originated at birth or during the developmental period (prior to age 22), is expected to continue indefinitely, and substantially restricts the individual’s functioning in several major life activities. Examples of developmental disabilities include autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Spina Bifida, and intellectual disabilities.

Councils play a unique role in making investments towards impact at the local and state levels. Councils have direct contact with individuals with DD, families, and providers. They provide a venue for policymakers and agencies to listen to people with DD and their families. They perform comprehensive reviews and analyses of needs, services and supports. They develop and implement state plans every five years to respond to needs and leverage funding to make investments towards greater impact.

The report focuses on five key areas: transition and postsecondary education, employment, health and wellness, community living, and self-advocacy and leadership. Highlights from each of the 56 Councils are noted throughout the report.

The NACDD serves as the national voice of State and Territorial Councils on Developmental Disabilities. The Association supports DD Councils in implementing the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act and promotes the interests and rights of people with developmental disabilities and their families.